You’ve been facing a very slow internet connection and somebody mentioned you might need a new router. You go ahead and have a technician check it and he’s surprised a 10-year-old router still works. Technology has taken leaps and yet you choose to stand still with your trusty router. It’s okay, we’ve all been there. However, now that you know better, let’s help you find the best router according to your usage and needs.

It is worth knowing that buying a router is not the only option. Many internet providers including Optimum, and Spectrum offer Wi-Fi routers for a monthly rental. It is an easy way to stay on top of the router technology.

Buying a Router

Now, if you’ve made up your mind that buying is the way to go for you, then let’s go ahead and discuss some standard features you need to look for.

  1. First of all, make sure it is compatible with your internet service. You can ask your internet service provider (ISP) for a list of compatible router models.
  2. Always buy a dual-band router. These routers perform much better because they transmit signals at two different frequencies instead of just one.
  3. USB ports are essential these days. Everything is either attached to your device wirelessly or through a USB port. So make sure your router has one.
  4. If you have a big house and face dead spots, then you might want to consider a mesh network. Several interconnected nodes are installed in the house to provide seamless Wi-Fi network throughout the house without setting up several passwords for extenders.

Setting up a Router

So, you found the best router to fit your household’s needs. Bravo! The hardest part is over. Now let us walk you through setting it up.

  1. Every router comes with a user manual, it’ll be a good idea to read that first. In case of any confusion call up your internet provider’s customer service hotline to guide you through the process, as it may differ slightly from one provider to another depending on the kind of internet connection you receive, i.e. satellite, DSL, cable, etc.
  2. It is best to place your router farthest from other electronics so that there is no disturbance in the dispersion of signals. Placing your router in the ideal spot is the first and crucial step towards a happy relationship with your router. It’s a good idea to place your router in an area where there aren’t many walls and doors blocking the signals.
  3. If you feel that the Wi-Fi router signals could be better, try to reposition the router’s antennae. Switching the Wi-Fi channel may be another way to improve signal strength.
  4. It may come as a surprise but your router has storage and memory too. Temporary files are stored for the day-to-day functions that may take up lots of space over time and cause the router to slow down. All you need to do is reset the router and the temporary files will be discarded, leaving your device working normally again. The button will usually be inside a tiny hole marked “Reset” and you’ll need a paperclip or a pin to press it. Hold it down for around 20-30 seconds and you’re good.
  5. It is common for modems and routers to have issues so don’t fret. Rebooting the device usually does the trick, so always try doing that before you start to panic. Just unplug the device and wait for 20-30 seconds before plugging it in again.

Now that you’ve got all this useful information go ahead and buy the router of your dreams. You know what you’re looking for so it’ll be the perfect match I know. May you and your prospective router have a few good years of happiness before technology evolves once again.